Essential Cooking Spices

August 20, 2023

10 Essential Cooking Spices Every Kitchen Should Have

Have you ever made a dish without using any spices? Imagine making noodles without adding pepper – it would taste strange, right? This shows just how important adding spices to our meals really is. One of the key elements when cooking is the use of spices. These tiny, powerful ingredients have the ability to transform ordinary meals into special dishes.

Image from Food Hack

I know when you think of spices, what come to mind are curry and thyme. Those are obviously the common and most popular spices so I understand. However, there are other interesting spices that shouldn’t be missing in your kitchen. Let’s explore these essential cooking spices that will change your cooking game.

Pepper: Whether in the form of black, white, or red pepper flakes, this spice adds a subtle kick and warmth to dishes. Ground pepper is perfect for seasoning, while pepper flakes are excellent for giving a hint of heat to sauces and stews.
Pepper flakes | Image from Pepper Scale
Garlic Powder: This is my all time favorite spice. It’s a convenient alternative to fresh garlic, garlic powder adds a rich, savory taste to dishes. It’s a staple in marinades, soups, and roasted vegetables.
Image from Mashed
Onion Powder: Just like garlic powder, onion powder offers a convenient way to incorporate onion flavor without the chopping tears. It’s versatile and works well in sauces, dips, and meat rubs.
Image from Rural Sprout
Paprika: This spice comes in various forms, such as sweet, smoked, and hot, each offering a distinct flavor profile. Sprinkle it on roasted meats, potatoes, or use it to add color and depth to dishes.
Image from Jamie Geller
Cumin: It is known for its earthy and warm flavor, cumin is an important spice in many cuisines. It’s a key ingredient in chili, curries, and spice blends.
Image from L’île aux épices
Cinnamon: Often associated with desserts and cookies, cinnamon also adds warmth to savory dishes. Mind you, taking too much may be an issue if you’re on diabetes medications. Check here for some breakfast dishes recommended for Nigerians with Diabetes.
Image from Salud
Ginger: I’m not sure why but I call it ”garlic’s twin” and it is my favorite spice for stew and pasta. Whether fresh or ground, ginger adds a slightly spicy note to meals. It’s a cornerstone of many Asian-inspired recipes.
Image from Organic Facts
Thyme: Thyme is another essential cooking spice that should not be missing in your kitchen. It has a subtle earthy flavor and pairs well with a variety of ingredients. It’s excellent for seasoning meats and stew.
Image from Master Class
Rosemary: A robust herb with a pine-like aroma, rosemary is perfect for roasted meats, potatoes, and bread. It’s best used in little amount due to its strong flavor.
Image from The Kitchen Herbs
Bay Leaves: Popularly used in Nigerian Jollof Rice, these aromatic leaves are usually used dried and add a deep, herbal flavor to soups, stews, and braised dishes. Remember to remove them before serving.
Image from Etsy